The Avery wrestling team opened the season last weekend at the Old Appalachian Invitational tournament at Watauga High School. Avery's team score of 57.5 points was good enough for 13th among the 19-team field at the tournament.
Avery senior John Hensley captured third place in the 135-pound weight class, while Stephen Holland tied for third place in the 140-pound weight class.
The Vikings traveled to St. Stephens High School in Hickory on Wednesday to compete in the 10-team Indian Duals. Avery's young squad struggled in dual matches against more experienced teams in South Caldwell, host St. Stephens, and Winston-Salem Glenn, but the Vikings captured fourth place in its pool by defeating the East Mecklenburg Eagles.
Hensley again wrestled well at the event, winning three matches by pin and a fourth match by injury forfeit. The Vikings next take on the Watauga Pioneers on Tuesday, then travel to Ashe County for a dual meet Thursday evening before competing in the Ashe County Tournament in Jefferson on Saturday.
